Canadiens sign Desharnais to four-year extension

Montreal, QC (Sports Network) - The Montreal Canadiens have signed center
David Desharnais to a four-year contract extension through the 2016-17 season.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Desharnais has eight goals and eight assists for 16 points in 27 games this
season, his fourth in the NHL.

"David Desharnais is a talented young player and his contribution is essential
to the success of our team," said Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin in a
statement Friday. "David has shown perseverance and determination, which
enabled him to reach the NHL and succeed. He has earned this contract
extension and the Canadiens organization is pleased to have secured his
services for many years to come."

The 26-year-old Quebec native joined the Montreal organization as a free agent
in November 2008. He has 32 goals and 99 points in 157 NHL games, finishing
third on the club last year in scoring with 60 points.